The object of the research reported in this paper is to prepare guidelines for methods for the more efficient education of adult students in Sweden engaged in planned programs leading to comprehensive, vocational or secondary school competence or to corresponding degrees of competence required for further vocational education. this first stage consists of a survey of the clientele, concentrated on evening and adult secondary school classes, county colleges and correspondence schools. The survey undertaken was concerned with variables related to social background, aptitude, and personality. Analysis of the findings, and of the comparison between those who dropped out of the schools and those who remained, is included. These findings are to be used as the basis for further research on methodology in teaching adults. (MF)